FARM WEEKLY | Mice videos are sowing seeds of alarm beyond Western Australia

Reports of increasing mouse activity across parts of Western Australia are raising concern as growers head into seeding, with early signs emerging in paddocks around Geraldton and Ravensthorpe.

Grain Producers Australia Research Development and Extension Spokesperson Andrew Weidemann told Farm Weekly that it is too early to determine how widespread the issue may become, but the level of activity highlights the importance of early monitoring, particularly in the lead up to sowing when populations can escalate quickly if left unchecked.

He said GPA is working with partners including CSIRO and the Grains Research and Development Corporation to ensure growers have access to timely information as conditions develop.

GPA is also engaging with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority to support access to emergency control options where needed, including zinc phosphide bait products such as ZP50.

With monitoring data expected in the coming weeks, the focus remains on ensuring growers are prepared early, with both the information and tools needed to respond if mouse numbers increase.

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